Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Universal Studios Islands of Adventure: Dragon Challenge

You'll take part in this adventure while you explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, at Universal Studios' Islands of Adventure. The thrills you'll experience during this adventure won't be easily forgotten!

The challenge waits for you in the deepest, darkest part of the castle. The walkway leading you to the castle is adorned with banners announcing the Triwizard Tournament, as well as banners representing the four contestants.

You'll be greeted by Weasly's crashed flying Ford Anglia - still running. Still honking.

You'll also pass by Hagrid's Hut and the Champion's tent.

Then you'll make way into the dark passageways of the castle. When you're in the castle, you can't miss the Goblet of Fire trophy displayed high on a mantle.

You'll move on from there, beginning your trip through drafty, dimly lit passages. Look above you and check out illuminated floating candles.

But your exploration won't end at magical floating candles.

Continue further into more long, dark, narrow tunnels, and watch out for a large, cracked wooden door. If you listen closely, you'll hear something behind it.

It'll sound like growling from a large beast. It is growling from a large beast.

If you wait long enough, the dragons behind the door will sense you're there and lash out at the door trying to get through.

At the other end of tunnels, you'll arrive at the tent where the Dragon challenge is waiting for you.

Ahead, you will see the boarding area where you will face the really thrilling part of this challenge!

You'll have to choose which dragon you want to conquer: the Chinese Fireball or the Hungarian Horntail. Above you, in the star-lit sky, you'll see silhouettes of giant, winged creatures flying overhead.

It's time to face the Dragon Challenge!

Dragon challenge is an inverted duel roller coaster- the only one in the world!

It is made up of two tracks.

The Chinese Fireball and Hungarian Horntail navigate two different tracks and offer two complete different and exciting rides. The Chinese Fireball can go up to 60 miles per hour, while Hungarian Horntail runs at top speed of 55 mph.

Although the Chinese Fireball is faster, the Hungarian Horntail has more loops and twists. Both rides last for two minutes and 25 seconds and include five inversions each.

A huge surprise you'll experience on this attraction is the near-misses where you'll within inches from walls, land, and riders on the other coaster.